A recent study published in Computers in Human Behavior highlights that doomscrolling at work entails hidden costs extending far beyond simple lost productivity. The research, directed by Ian Hughes at Texas A&M University, investigated the psychological impact of consuming distressing content during working hours.
Doomscrolling involves obsessively scrolling through social media to consume negative news, a behavior increasingly prevalent among people aged 18 to 35 globally. Through two distinct studies involving workers in the United States and the United Kingdom, researchers found that employees who engage in this habit during work hours tend to ruminate on the negative information. This continuous cognitive engagement leaves them preoccupied and significantly diminishes their work engagement. Notably, this detrimental effect intensifies for workers exhibiting higher levels of neuroticism, a personality trait associated with anxiety and chronic worry.
People frequently turn to social media during crises not out of pleasure, but in an effort to comprehend uncertain situations such as pandemics, public safety threats, or conflicts. While this stems from a desire to stay informed during stressful periods, it repeatedly exposes users to disturbing content that proves difficult to dismiss.
Contemporary workplaces are especially vulnerable because employees carry smartphones and laptops throughout the day, facilitating quick checks between tasks. Nevertheless, the researcher advises against implementing strict workplace bans on phones or social media, noting that such measures typically fail and alienate employees. Instead, individuals are encouraged to establish personal boundaries, restricting doomscrolling to specific environments outside the office, such as at home or in a coffee shop.
Difficult words
- productivity — The rate at which work is completed or goods are produced.
- distressing — Causing anxiety, sorrow, or deep concern.
- prevalent — Widespread or commonly occurring in a particular area or time.
- ruminate — To think deeply and repeatedly about something negative.
- neuroticism — A personality trait characterized by chronic worry and anxiety.
- vulnerable — Susceptible to physical or emotional attack or harm.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How does excessive consumption of negative news on social media affect your daily focus and energy?
- What are some practical ways individuals can set personal boundaries regarding their smartphone use during working hours?
- Why do you think people continue to read distressing news despite knowing it makes them feel anxious?
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